Personalized System for Instruction (PSI)

• “as fast as they can or as slowly as they need”

Background

• Originally designed in the 1960s by Dr. Fred Keller

• Used for university psychology courses

(> 300 students/class)

What is PSI?

• Student-centered approach

• Course/topic is broken

into modules

• Modules into units

• Places more responsibility

on student

• Allows teacher to monitor class

Components of PSI

• Learning is self-paced

• Mastery-based learning

• Content is passed on via written instructions

• Proctors

• Lectures and demos designed to increase motivation

Benefits

• Student learning is increases

• Higher rates of:EngagementSkill practiceAcademic learning timeVerbal & non-verbal feedback

Goals of PSI

• Student mastery1Small units2Coherent

progression3Demonstration of

mastery4. Observable

criterion5. Corrective actions

What Do Students Need?

• Readiness for learningIndependent?Reading skills?Responsible?Are they receptive to the idea?

PSI Approach

Task Presentation

• Written text

• Pictures

• Videos

What about the Teacher?

• Appropriate learning

• Able to explain in writing

• Break down skills

• Meaningful assessments

PSI

Provisions

• Self paced• Intrinsic motivation• Teaches personal

responsibility• Aids in technology

learning• Literacy• More freedom for teacher

Conclusions

• Meaningful?

• Teacher needs to be expert ?

• Student readiness

• Can’t continue until completed

Which SituationGrade Level PSI? Adaptations?

Preschool No

Elementary No

Middle School/Jr. High Yes •Decrease learning tasks •Simplify•Stations•Task cards•Others?

High School Yes •Peer teaching•Media•Teacher checked tasks•Others?

Adults Yes None

Summary

• Self Paced

• Less time in instruction

• Increases intrinsic motivation

• More responsibility on student

• Ton of work for teacher to set up

• More activity